Love Live!: School Idol Musical Returns with Revolving Stage

The "School Idol Musical" returns to the stage of the New National Theatre in Tokyo for the 15th anniversary of Love Live! from September 19 to 26, 2026. For the new production, the revolving stage is used again for the first time since the 2022 premiere; it is meant to enable quick scene changes, like turning the page of a book.

Anime!Anime! spoke with Karin Miyamoto, Nanami Asai, Julia An and Yuka Murayama about the anniversary production before it opens. Asai returns as Yuzuha Sumeragi, and Julia An again as Yukino Hojo. Miyamoto takes on the role of Anzu Takizawa for the first time, and Murayama joins the ensemble as Sayaka Harukaze.

Revolving Stage Returns After Four Years

The "School Idol Musical" premiered in 2022 as a standalone musical branch of the Love Live! franchise and has since been staged several times. The production combines the main storyline with songs and dance numbers; in addition, there are performances with an emphasis on a culture festival and after-party.

For the 2026 edition, the ensemble returns to the middle hall of the New National Theatre. According to the official rehearsal report, the revolving stage is meant to give the staging a stronger spatial structure again. Direction, book and choreography come from Koki Kishimoto; Ryota Kojima is responsible for composition, arrangement, musical direction and vocal coaching. A total of 14 performances are scheduled between September 19 and 26.

The anniversary production joins several current stage projects from the anime and manga scene. At the end of August, the first stage adaptation of Dandadan began in Tokyo. A anniversary stage production of Galaxy Express 999 has also been announced for March 2027.